The Centre for Gender Studies launched its website on 12th January 2012.

Prof Sarath Amunugama, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya launched the website of the recently set up Centre for Gender Studies of the university on 12th January 2012. The launch, held at the Senate Room, was attended by several academics including deans of faculties, the registrar, administrative staff, students and the media. The organizing committee of the CGSUK organized the event.

Explaining the background to the Centre, the Vice Chancellor said that the university has a much larger number of women students than men, with up to 90% women in some faculties. Many issues faced by students were, in fact, gender issues. However, in spite of these realities, he found awareness with regard to gender issues a much-needed area for improvement in the university.

The Director of CGSUK, Professor Wickramasinghe, dispelling some popular misconceptions, explained that gender studies is not exclusive to women. She stated that gender equity and equality includes men’s issues as well as those of women even though more women than men are inclined to occupy positions of disadvantage. For example, she said that the impact of decreasing numbers of men in the arts and the humanities fields should be investigated from a policy perspective.

The website of the CGSUK, designed by the university’s Visual Arts, Design and Performing Arts Unit (Professor Mangalika Jayatunge) and Information Communication Technology Centre also displays its new logo (Professor Magalika Jayatunge and Ms. Jayamini). The website contains information about the centre’s rationale, aims, its location in the university premises, and upcoming events.

Lecturer Ms. Tanya Uluwitiya presented the website to the gathering. After the vote of thanks delivered by another lecturer Anton Pushparaj, the event concluded with fellowship and refreshments.